Sierra County

Sierra County, an oasis with lakes & hot springs surrounded by natural beauty

Sierra County, New Mexico: Overwhelmingly Rich in History, while Embracing the Future of Space Travel.

Sierra County, New Mexico, is an area of stunning contrasts. It is home to some of the most historical and ancient archaeological sites in North America. It is also a place where you can find the best of Southwestern art, therapeutic hot mineral spas, sailing and fishing, museums, and a vast amount of history and nature, just waiting to be explored. All of this is set against a backdrop of some of the most beautiful Southwestern landscape that you will ever see.

Archaeological records show that people lived in the region long before the Spanish explorers left their mark on the area hundreds of years ago. As early as 12,000 years ago, this land was populated by indigenous peoples who hunted, gathered and lived off the fruit of the land. Around nine-hundred years ago, the Apache arrived, and almost 200 years ago, Geronimo, perhaps the most famous Apache of all, called these lands home. He fought savagely to preserve the lands for his people as more and more people moved in from the east seeking new land and the riches of the precious metals discovered in Sierra County.

The rich history of the area is the foundation for what the county has become today inviting you to take a closer look at how the county has embraced the future with Spaceport America, and yet still retained that great historical spirit.

The ancient trails and landscapes that Geronimo and the early settlers traveled, are getting new use in our modern world. Sierra County, with its Cities of Truth or Consequences, and Elephant Butte offer some of the best outside playgrounds in the southwest. On any given day, the soft thumping of horses' hooves can be heard in the hills, while the lakes come alive with water sports of every imaginable kind.

Locals and tourists enjoy golf at the Sierra del Rio Championship Golf Course of Turtleback Mountain Resort in Elephant Butte and the Truth or Consequences Municipal Golf course. Rock climbing, hunting, fishing, boating, cycling, bird watching, there is not much that the mind can imagine, that cannot be found here.

If you are leaning toward less strenuous pleasures, Truth or Consequences offers over fifty pools and tubs to relax in the hot mineral springs, art galleries filled with world-class works of art from both local and international artists, and local eclectic stores that are a joy to explore. You'll find all manner of decorating possibilities from textiles to fine art sculptures. For the intellectually curious, there are bookstores and amazing museums, while just a short drive into the county, are old mining and ghost towns to explore.

Wondering what the best time of the year is to visit? We can truly say a resounding “Anytime!” The county and communities hold festivals and events year-round, as well as tournaments for golf and fishing, marathons and triathlons. Annual favorites like the Old Time Fiddlers competition, Fiesta and the 4th of July fireworks to name just a few, keep the visitors coming back for more.

There's always something to do in Sierra County no matter what your idea of fun is!

Visiting the area is as simple as booking your accommodation at one of the many hotels, motels,

cabins, or camp grounds. Something for every budget and occasion is available so come and stay

awhile. You'll be glad you did!